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Gerbil habitat selection guide – how to set up a digging and sand zone smartly and safely
A gerbil enclosure only truly works if it's designed to accommodate natural behavior: digging, foraging, and sand bathing. This page is a selection guide (not a product overview): you'll learn what a good enclosure should have, how to create a smart layout with a deep digging layer and a solid sand zone, and what common mistakes to avoid. DRD Rodent Shop® has been a specialist since 2011 and is happy to help you choose based on welfare and practical experience.
Relevant gerbil pages: Gerbil information (overview) · Mongolian gerbil · Fat-tailed gerbil · Gerbil assortment
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Checklist: a good basis for every gerbil enclosure
- ✓ Spacious floor space and a quiet location (no drafts, no direct sunlight).
- ✓ Deep excavation layer where tunnels can be created and remain.
- ✓ A permanent sand zone (sand bath) that you can easily maintain.
- ✓ Multiple hiding places and at least two “routes” through the enclosure.
- ✓ Safe design : stable, rodent-proof where necessary, limited fall height.
✓ Behavior first
Set up for digging, searching, and sand bathing. This prevents unrest and "destructive behavior."
✓ Structure in zones
A clear digging and sand zone makes the enclosure organized and easy to maintain.
✓ Safe & stable
A stable structure and limited drop height are more important than “building high”.
Basics: floor space, ventilation and quiet
For gerbils, "wide and spacious" generally works better than "narrow and tall." Choose an enclosure with adequate ventilation and place it in a quiet location. Keep species differences in mind: the general principles apply to all gerbils, but details can vary by species (see the species pages in the gerbil information overview).
Layout: digging zone + sand zone (practical and logical)
The most practical layout consists of two distinct zones: 1) a digging zone with depth and structure, and 2) a sand zone where they can bathe and which is easier for you to clean. This prevents the entire enclosure from becoming a "sandbox" and supports natural behavior.
Digging layer: tunnel-resistant and pleasant
A good digging layer is n't too dusty and has enough structure to allow tunnels to remain. In practice, it often works well to combine a digging base with structural material (e.g., fibers/hay) to prevent tunnels from collapsing. Always monitor your gerbils' reactions: sneezing or irritated eyes are signs that you should reconsider your choice of material.
Sand zone: sand bath as a basic need
Gerbils use sand for bathing. A solid sand area helps with grooming and adds a "desert feel" to the enclosure. Keep the sand clean and replace it when it becomes visibly soiled.
Design: shelters, routes and enrichment
Gerbils feel safer when they don't have to roam freely. Therefore, work with multiple hiding places and waypoints. Enrichment isn't just about accessories, but especially about variety: foraging (searching for food), gnawing options, and occasionally a new stimulus, without overturning everything at once.
Common mistakes (and solutions)
- Insufficient digging depth → choose a deeper digging zone and add structure so that tunnels remain standing.
- Change everything at once → adjust step by step; gerbils value recognizability.
- Unstable “high-rise” → build lower and more stable, with limited drop height.
- No fixed sand zone → create a clear sand area, this reduces maintenance and creates a peaceful environment in the enclosure.
Maintenance & hygiene (practical)
- ✓ Daily: check water/food, remove leftovers, visually check sand area.
- ✓ Weekly: spot cleaning (dirty areas) and updating/refreshing sand where necessary.
- ✓ Periodic: major cleaning without aggressive agents; let everything dry thoroughly.
For general background information you can also consult the LICG .
Useful links (shop)
From this selection tool you can go directly to the gerbil range and the categories you most often need for furnishing and exercise.
✓ Gerbil range
Everything for accommodation and furnishings clearly presented by category.
✓ Gerbil winter products
Extra comfort, shelter and enrichment for cold days.
FAQ – Gerbil housing selection guide
Is a terrarium always better than a cage?
Not necessarily. It's all about space, ventilation, and design. A terrarium often offers excellent digging opportunities, but only if it's well-ventilated and securely sealed.
Why a separate sand zone?
Sand bathing is part of natural behaviour and a permanent sand zone makes maintenance easier.
How do I keep everything from collapsing?
Work with depth and structure: choose digging material that “grabs” and add structural material so that tunnels remain in place better.
Tip: Need help choosing? Check out our service page .
✓ Selection aid based on well-being and practical experience
✓ Specialist since 2011
✓ Clear checklist, error list and FAQ
